Scientific Inquiry Fundamentals

Study Notes

Scientific Inquiry: A systematic approach to exploring and understanding natural phenomena through experimentation and observation.
Hypothesis: An educated guess or tentative explanation that can be tested through experiments and observations to validate or invalidate its validity.
Observation: The act of using sensory perceptions and scientific tools to gather information about a subject or event, laying the foundation for scientific exploration.
Conclusion: The results derived from the scientific investigation, summarizing what has been learned and whether the hypothesis was supported or refuted.
Quantitative Data: Numerical information that can be measured and counted, essential for statistical analysis and interpretation in scientific studies.
Qualitative Data: Descriptive information that characterizes qualities or attributes of a subject, providing context and deeper understanding beyond numerical values.

Every measurement is expressed with a numerical value followed by a unit to convey meaning.
Examples of measurements include:
- Length: 3 feet indicates a specific distance.
- Time: 45 minutes represents a duration.
- Temperature: 25 degrees Celsius describes thermal conditions.
- Volume: 1 liter indicates a capacity.
- Weight: 115 pounds conveys mass.